The Department of Surgery at the University of Wisconsin cares for patients at University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, William S. Middleton Memorial Veteran’s Hospital, American Family Children’s Hospital, and Meriter Hospital as well as other local and regional hospitals and clinics.

If you come to the Department of Surgery at the University of Wisconsin your care will be provided in a clinic that unites several specialties to provide the best possible treatment plan. Our department prides itself on highly trained expert surgeons in their fields and proven, innovative techniques supported by cutting edge research, and outcomes above national benchmarks.

Breast Surgery at the UW Department of Surgery is handled by surgeons trained in the most advanced procedures to treat cancer and diseases of the breast. Our breast surgeons are key members of a multidisciplinary team in the Breast Center dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all benign and malignant breast problems. The Breast Center is located in the UW Carbone Cancer Center, the only NCI designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in Wisconsin.

The University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics Burn Center offers a unique level of comprehensive burn treatment for both pediatric and adult patients from the time of injury through discharge and rehabilitation.

The Medical and Surgical Weight Management Program is a multidisciplinary group of dedicated experts committed to helping morbidly obese patients who have struggled with their weight and health conditions, using the latest surgical techniques.

The Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (ENT) offers a wide range of specialists in the field of adult and pediatric general otolaryngology, facial plastics and trauma, head and neck, otology, rhinology, swallow and voice issues.

Our pediatric cardiothoracic surgeon provides comprehensive treatment for infants, children and adolescents with congenital or acquired heart and/or thoracic diseases at American Family Children’s Hospital.

Our specailists in pediatric plastic and reconstructive surgery provide a variety of services for children at the American Family Children’s Hospital. We care for the entire spectrum of congenital (present at birth) and acquired deformities in infants, children and adolescents.

The Thoracic Surgery specialists in the Department of Surgery offer comprehensive specialty care for patients with all types of heart and thoracic diseases. We provide a complete range of services – from initial evaluation and management to highly specialized consultation for rare diseases, new surgical approaches, devices and technologies.

Breast Surgery at the UW Department of Surgery is handled by surgeons trained in the most advanced procedures to treat cancer and diseases of the breast. Our breast surgeons are key members of a multidisciplinary team in the Breast Center dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all benign and malignant breast problems. The Breast Center is located in the UW Carbone Cancer Center, the only NCI designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in Wisconsin.

An axillary lymph node dissection occurs when all of the lymph nodes underneath the arm are removed. This procedure is performed if cancer is found in the lymph nodes after performing a core biopsy or a sentinel lymph node biopsy of the axillary lymph nodes. An axillary lymph node dissection can be performed with any of the breast procedures.

Breast reconstructions can be performed by a plastic surgeon for most women who undergo mastectomy. This can be done at the same time as the breast operation or at a later time. Reconstructions can be done using artificial implants or by using tissue from a woman’s own body.

A core needle biopsy uses a needle to obtain a sample of breast tissue. Core biopsies may be performed with the help of an X-ray stereotactic mammogram (stereotactic core biopsy) or an ultrasound (ultrasound guided core biopsy). Core needle biopsy is usually performed by a radiologist.

This surgical biopsy is performed if a core biopsy cannot be performed or if it doesn’t provide a definitive diagnosis. Radiologists place a wire into the lump or calcification using mammogram or ultrasound guidance; the wire helps surgeons find the area of concern at the time of surgery.

This is a surgical excision performed in the operating room after an abnormality, lump or calcification, is identified by needle biopsy. Radiologists place a wire into the lump or calcification using mammogram or ultrasound guidance; the wire helps surgeons find the area of concern at the time of surgery. Additionally, the UW Breast Center is one of the few centers in Wisconsin that also uses MRI to guide the placement of the wire for the surgical biopsy.

The sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node(s) underneath the arm where breast cancer may spread. These lymph nodes are sent to a pathologist to determine if cancer is present. A sentinel lymph node biopsy can be performed with any of the breast procedures (needle-localized excision, lumpectomy, or mastectomy).

A skin-sparing mastectomy is a type of mastectomy in which all of the breast tissue and the nipple is removed, but as much of the skin is kept intact. A nipple-sparing mastectomy incorporates nipple-sparing techniques. These types of mastectomy are performed in women who wish to have immediate breast reconstruction.

The University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics Burn Center offers a unique level of comprehensive burn treatment for both pediatric and adult patients from the time of injury through discharge and rehabilitation.

The TMR procedure uses lasers to create small channels in the heart muscle. These channels help restore blood flow to the heart, which reduces the symptoms of coronary artery disease and offers relief from the pain of angina.

Most valve repair or replacement operations are performed on the aortic or mitral valve. New minimally invasive techniques use smaller incisions and specialized instruments. Often the surgeon does not have to open the breastbone at all.

A variety of VADs have been used successfully at UWHC to help keep patients with end-stage heart failure alive while awaiting transplant. This is called “bridge to transplant.” The majority of VADs implanted at UWHC are in this category. VADs can also be implanted as destination therapy for patients who are not candidates for heart transplantation, as well as for the less common “bridge to recovery.”

Inside the anus are small glands that can become clogged when an infection develops from bacteria or foreign matter that has entered the tisse. When the glands become infected, an abscess can develop which must be drained.

Anorectal Manometry

A diagnostic procedure that measures resting and squeeze pressures throughout the length of the anal canal.

Anorectal Ultrasound

If muscle injury is a possibility, an ultrasound that allows visualization of internal and external sphincter muscles will also be performed to assess for a defect.

Ileal pouch reconstruction allows patients with conditions such as ulcerative colitis, familial polyposis and certain types of colon cancer to avoid living with a permanent ileostomy and external appliance after colectomy.

Laparoscopic surgery requires the abdomen to be inflated with carbon dioxide for the insertion of small access ports. A telescope attached to a camera is inserted through the ports into the abdomen and instruments are passed through the ports and used to manipulate the small and large intestines.

Laparoscopic surgery requires the abdomen to be inflated with carbon dioxide for the insertion of small access ports. A telescope attached to a camera is inserted through the ports into the abdomen and instruments are passed through the ports and used to manipulate the small and large intestines.

Sphincterotomy surgery allows a fissure or fistula to heal. A small part of the anal sphincter muscle is cut to open the anal canal. This relieves pressure when you move your bowels and allows a fissure to heal.

A procedure in which an electrode is used to locate the nerve and sense sphincter contraction. Anorectal manometry and pudendal nerve testing assess the degree of muscle weakness and determine whether injury to the nerves is also contributing to your condition.

TMJ surgery can be an option for patients with specific, severe structural problems in the jaw joint. These include scar tissue in the joint area, problems with bone alignment, broken or degenerated bones, and occasionally disc displacement or perforation.

An outpatient surgical procedure that uses radioactive material and a probe to identify which of the four parathyroid glands are oversecreting hormones and removes the parathyroid gland through a small incision.

In an esophagectomy the abnormal segment of the esophagus is surgically removed. The stomach is then reattached to the noncancerous portion of the esophagus. This may be done in a minimally invasive manner.

Heller myotomy is a surgical procedure that divides the muscles of the lower esophagus which in turn allows food and liquids to pass into the stomach.

This procedure may be laparoscopic of robotic. Laparoscopic esophageal (Heller) myotomy may be an option for patients with achalasia. Our surgeons also use robotic surgery techniques which allows for more exact, precise surgical movements and is a minimally-invasive approach to surgery.

A minimally-invasive surgical procedure used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The surgery improves the natural barrier between the stomach and esophagus by wrapping a part of the stomach around the lower esophagus. It is considered the gold-standard for treating GERD.

A minimally-invasive surgical procedure used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The surgery improves the natural barrier between the stomach and esophagus by wrapping a part of the stomach around the lower esophagus.

A transoral incisionless fundoplication is an incisionless surgical procedure that is performed transorraly, through the mouth. This procedure reduces reflux symptoms by reinforcing the gastrointestinal juction.

An upper gastrointestinal (UGI) endoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to look at the interior lining of your esophagus, your stomach, and the first part of your small intestine (duodenum) through a thin, flexible viewing instrument called an endoscope. The tip of the endoscope is inserted through your mouth and then gently moved down your throat into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (upper gastrointestinal tract).

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a blockage of the sweat glands, usually in the armpits, and rarely, on the buttocks or groin or under the breasts. Surgery can be needed to remove lumps and cure the infection.

In laparoscopic hernia repair, a thin, lighted scope called a laparoscope is inserted through an incision. The instruments to repair the hernia are inserted through other small incisions in the lower abdomen. Mesh is then placed over the defect to reinforce the abdominal wall.

In open hernia repair surgery, a single long incision is made in the groin. If the hernia is bulging out of the abdominal wall (a direct hernia), the bulge is pushed back into place. If the hernia is going down the inguinal canal (indirect), the hernia sac is either pushed back or tied off and removed.

Spleen removal (splenectomy) is surgery to remove a diseased or damaged spleen. This organ is in the upper part of your belly, on the left side. It helps your body fight germs and infections. It also helps filter your blood.

Reconstructive hand surgery is a surgical procedure aimed to restore the form and function of an arthritic hand. Joint replacement and surgical repair of the joint (arthroplasty) are surgical options for patients suffering from severe arthritis of the hands.

This procedure is also referred to as a Peustow or Frey procedure and is used to treat pain associated with chronic pancreatitis. A long opening is made in the pancreatic duct, connecting it to a hole in a piece of the intestine, effectively bypassing the area of obstruction. Sometimes part of the pancreas is removed.

Liver cysts may require treatment when they cause symptoms. In most cases the cyst is opened, the fluid is removed, and part of the cyst wall is removed. The cyst cavity is treated and often a piece of omentum is attached to the liver surface to prevent the cyst from returning.

Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a form of chemotherapy used after surgeons perform cytoreductive surgery – removal or reduction of a tumor confined to the peritoneal cavity (abdomen).

This procedure is also referred to as a Peustow or Beger procedure and is used to treat pain associated with chronic pancreatitis. A long opening is made in the pancreatic duct, connecting it to a hole in a piece of the intestine, effectively bypassing the area of obstruction. Sometimes part of the pancreas is removed.

A gastrectomy procedure removes part or all of the stomach. This is done for tumors of the stomach and can require removal of the entire stomach depending on the size and location of the tumor. If the entire stomach is removed, a new connection is made between the esophagus and the intestine. If part of the stomach is removed, the remaining stomach is connected to the rest of the intestine. This operation can also involve removing the lymph nodes surrounding the stomach, and any additional organs involved.

A liver resection is a surgical procedure used to remove part of the liver. The liver has eight segments. Resections of the liver can range from relatively small (one or less than one segment) to major (up to six segments).

This treatment strategy attempts to eliminate the liver tumor by killing the tumor cells without removing any of the liver. This can be done with a variety of techniques, most of which involve heat. Descriptions of this technique are called radiofrequency ablation (or RFA), microwave ablation or cryoablation.

This procedure is also referred to as a Frey or Beger procedure. A long opening is made in the pancreatic duct, connecting it to a hole in a piece of the intestine, effectively bypassing the area of obstruction. Sometimes part of the pancreas is removed.

This surgical procedure is also known as a pancreaticoduodenectomy or “Whipple” procedure. It removes the head of the pancreas, the duodenum (the first piece of the small intestine), part of the bile duct (the pipe which drains bile from the liver into the bowel), the surrounding lymph nodes, the gallbladder, and sometimes part of the stomach.

This surgical procedure is also known as a pancreatic head resection or “Whipple” procedure. It removes the head of the pancreas, the duodenum (the first piece of the small intestine), part of the bile duct (the pipe which drains bile from the liver into the bowel), the surrounding lymph nodes, the gallbladder, and sometimes part of the stomach.

Pancreatic pseudocysts occur with pancreatitis. These are not truly cysts but are collections of pancreatic debris and fluid that may need to be treated with surgical drainage. The procedure involves opening the pancreatic cyst, cleaning out the cavity and sewing it to an opening in the small intestine, called cystjejunosotmy. This can be done laparoscopically or in an open fashion depending on the specifics of the case.

These resections involve removing the left part of the pancreas and may sometimes require removing the spleen as well. The blood vessels which supply the spleen run through the pancreas and, depending on the location and type of the tumor, the spleen may need to be removed in addition. Removing the left part of the pancreas does not require making any new connections.

A radical cholecystectomy removes the gallbladder in addition to the portion of the liver attached to the gallbladder. This is usually performed when there is either suspected or proven gallbladder cancer. This operation usually includes removal of the lymph nodes and can include bile duct resection.

This surgical procedure is also known as a pancreatic head resection or a pancreaticoduodenectomy procedure. It removes the head of the pancreas, the duodenum (the first piece of the small intestine), part of the bile duct (the pipe which drains bile from the liver into the bowel), the surrounding lymph nodes, the gallbladder, and sometimes part of the stomach.

The Department of Surgery transplant team performs both single lung and bilateral lung transplants, according to the needs of individual patients. During a lung transplant, the patient’s diseased lungs are removed and replaced with healthy lungs from a donor.

The Medical and Surgical Weight Management Program is a multidisciplinary group of dedicated experts committed to helping morbidly obese patients who have struggled with their weight and health conditions, using the latest surgical techniques.

A minimally invasive surgical procedure where a inflatable silicone band is placed around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small gastric pouch and a narrow passage into the rest of the stomach. Food intake restriction provided by the gastric pouch and narrow passage into the stomach results in weight loss.

A minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat morbid obesity. A small gastric pouch is created and the proximal small intestine is attached to the gastric pouch. Food intake restriction provided by the gastric pouch result in weight loss by bypassing the first portion of the intestine improves results.

A minimally invasive surgical procedure in which the lateral portion of the stomach is stapled and removed, thus reducing the size of the stomach, forming a long and small gastric pouch. Food intake restriction provided by the gastric pouch results in weight loss.

The Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (ENT) offers a wide range of specialists in the field of adult and pediatric general otolaryngology, facial plastics and trauma, head and neck, otology, rhinology, swallow and voice issues.

Acoustic neuromas are common tumors arising from the eighth cranial nerve which is the nerve of hearing and balance. These benign tumors require removal due to their location and potential for creating pressure on the brain stem and surrounding structures. At our institution, we perform all three approaches as well as different types of radiation therapy for treatment of these growths. The approach used depends on the size and location of the tumor, the amount of residual hearing, and other patient factors.

The adenoid is tonsil-like tissue located in the throat behind the nasal passage. If enlarged, it causes obstructive nasal symptoms (congestion, mucus accumulation) and snoring. It can also contribute to ear problems due to its location next to the Eustachian tube opening. Adenoidectomy is sometimes done in conjunction with tonsillectomy, and is performed through the mouth and nose.

An operation performed under general anesthesia designed to expand a narrow segment of the larynx (voice box) and/or trachea (windpipe). This procedure is performed through the mouth with an expandable balloon and patients go home the same day.

An operation performed under general anesthesia designed to remove or expand a narrow segment of the air passage at the level(s) of the larynx (voice box) and/or trachea (windpipe). This operation requires a hospital stay and detailed care before after surgery.

An operation performed with sedation and local anesthesia during which a paralyzed vocal cord is rotated to enhance voice, improve swallowing and improve the effectiveness of cough for healthy lungs; this procedure is performed for severe cases of vocal cord paralysis. Thyroplasty (see below) is usually performed at the same time on the paralyzed vocal cord.

The bone anchored implant or BAHA, is primarily used in patients who have single-sided deafness due to any cause with good hearing in the other ear, or other types of hearing loss where hearing aids are not an effective option. This is a minor out-patient procedure which is highly effective for hearing restoration in many cases.

This operation is routinely performed in children and adults who have to severe to profound hearing loss in both ears. This hearing loss may be due to a number of causes. The operation involves placement of an electronic device within the skull and inner ear that directly stimulates the hearing nerve leading to the brain.

Congenital Atresia of the Ear Canal and Middle Ear

A congenital atresia surgery involves reconstruction of the cartilage and bony portions of the ear canal including skin grafting. It also involves construction of a new ear drum and sometimes new bones of hearing. The operation is performed in children and adults who were born without an ear canal, ear drum or hearing bones. The operation can’t be performed in all individuals and some patients with the disorder may be candidates for the BAHA implant.

This operation is done to treat severe vertigo due to Meniere’s disease. It involves removal of bone overlying the inner ear fluid sac in order to relieve fluid pressure associated with Meniere’s disease. The operation involves a mastoidectomy, which is removal of the bone behind the ear in order to gain access to the fluid sac.

An operation performed to remove cancer of the larynx (voice box) using a laser. The procedure is performed through the mouth; there are no skin incisions and the need for a tracheotomy (breathing tube in the neck) is very rare. Patients often leave the hospital the next day.

An operation performed under general anesthesia designed to improve swallowing by widening a narrow segment of the esophagus (food tube). This procedure is performed through the mouth and patients go home the same day.

Facial Nerve Decompression

Facial nerve decompression is an operation that is done on patients who have complete paralysis of the face usually following trauma or a viral infection such as Bell’s palsy. Patients need to be seen early after the onset of the paralysis in order for the decompression to have a successful outcome. There are different types of facial nerve decompression depending on the location of the problem. Facial nerve decompression often involves a type of craniotomy called a middle fossa craniotomy and may also require a complete mastoidectomy. All of these operations take pressure off the facial nerve and sometimes a facial nerve graft may be required in order to restore long-term function.

Facial Nerve Grafting

In some disorders, primarily malignant and benign tumors, a nerve graft is required to repair a missing segment of the facial nerve. This includes operations where nerves are grafted from the tongue nerve to the facial nerve, or from other sensory nerves to the facial nerve. Nerve grafts may be effective even in patients who have had facial paralysis for up to two years following removal of a tumor.

This type of surgery spares much of the normal tissue and renders the patient more functional after the cancer surgery.

Gentamicin Titration

This is an outpatient office procedure used to treat vertigo due to Meniere’s disease. The ear drum is anesthetized and a medication called Gentamicin is placed into the inner ear that reduces abnormal electrical activity creating the attacks of vertigo in the affected ear. This treatment may involve a series of gentamicin treatments.

Benign growths of the larynx (voice box) usually found on the vocal cords which reduce the size of the air passage and impair voice quality. This disease can occur in children and also in adults. Papilloma will almost certainly return so many treatments may be required over time to control disease.

Lasers are able to access the larynx (voice box) by being passed through a flexible camera (endoscope) that goes through a nasal passage. These lasers function well because they treat diseased tissue and limit damage to the natural tissues. This feature means that disease can be treated and voice function is protected.

Abnormally large and/or prominent blood vessels on the surface of the vocal cords often seen in people with heavy voice use –whether singing or speaking. These blood vessel changes can increase in size making hoarseness worse or can rupture causing bleeding within the vocal cord.

White patches on the vocal cords producing hoarseness. These patches are usually not cancerous but usually are pre-cancerous (on the way to becoming cancer). These lesions are often found in people with tobacco and/or alcohol exposure and can be found even if those exposures stopped many years ago. Periodic treatments are usually required to reduce the leukoplakia; these treatments are designed to prevent progression to cancer and to improve voice.

There are many different types of mastoidectomy which involve removal of different amounts of bone for chronic infection. This operation is frequently done for a disorder called a cholesteatoma which is a type of cystic skin growth within the middle ear and mastoid. The removed bone may be reconstructed or replaced, or a mastoid cavity may be required in order to successfully eliminate the disease.

Mastoid Obliteration

In some patients with extremely severe infections, especially in patients with absent hearing, the mastoid cavity may be completely removed and sealed in order to eliminate chronic infection.

An operation performed through the mouth) for examination of the larynx (voice box) and removal of abnormal vocal cord tissue (such as polyps or cysts) that is impairing voice function. It is performed in an outpatient setting.

During a modified barium swallow study (MBSS) the patient is presented with various food items and observed during swallowing. Patients are seated in front of a fluoroscopy, or X-ray, machine operated by a radiologist.

An operation performed to remove cancer of the larynx (voice box). The procedure requires a skin incision and the need for a tracheotomy (breathing tube in the neck) usually for one month after the operation. Patients stay in the hospital for about a week.

Oral appliance therapy is an alternative treatment option for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). A patient wears the appliance at night. It realigns the jawbone in a more forward position, opening up the airway.

Ossiculoplasty

This operation involves repair or replacement of individual hearing bones in the middle ear which have been lost due to infection, trauma, or other problems. The operation may involve repair or replacement of any or all of the three bones of hearing.

In adults with persistent ear fluid and hearing loss or recurrent ear infections, we can place an ear tube in the ear drum in clinic with little to no pain.

Posterior Semicircular Canal Occlusion

This is done for a diagnosis of severe benign positional vertigo. The operation is rarely required since most patients with positional vertigo respond to maneuvers and physical therapy, however, in a very small percentage of cases where patients do not respond to vestibular exercises this operation may relieve their positional vertigo.

Abnormally large vocal cords usually found in adult female smokers producing a low pitched and rough voice. Stopping smoking is ideal but will not allow the vocal cords to return to normal and treatment is required for voice improvement. Rarely the vocal cords become so large that they cause restriction of the airway.

A congenital defect of the skull base results in spinal fluid leakage and encephalocele. Otology and Neurotology specialists perform repairs of skull base defects that have resulted in meningitis or spinal fluid leaks in children and adults. These leaks need to be repaired due to the risk of recurrent meningitis and infection.

This operation is performed for a condition called otosclerosis. In otosclerosis the stapes hearing bone is frozen. The abnormal bone is removed, usually with a laser, and replaced with an artificial microscopic titanium bone with complete restoration of hearing.

Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence

In this disorder, the bony covering of one of the balance canals is missing underneath the middle surface of the brain. These patients have episodes of dizziness in a number of conditions and sometimes also have hearing loss. During the operation, the missing bone is repaired or the canal is plugged, therefore, eliminating the dizziness.

An operation performed with sedation and local anesthesia during which an implant is placed next to a paralyzed vocal cord to help restore voice, improve swallowing and create a more effective cough to keep the lungs healthy.

An operation performed to remove cancer of the larynx (voice box). The entire larynx is removed. Several techniques are available for speech rehabilitation after surgery. Patients stay in the hospital for about a week.

Surgical placement of a breathing tube into the windpipe (trachea) just below the level of the voice box (larynx). This is performed on patients who need to be on a ventilator over a long period or who have obstruction of the airway at or above the level of the voice box.

This procedure is performed through the nose using a flexible endoscope (camera) and is designed to examine the esophagus and stomach. It is generally performed in patients with heartburn, chronic cough, globus pharyngeus (lump in the throat sensation) and swallowing problems.

This procedure is performed through the nose using a flexible endoscope (camera) and is designed to examine the larynx (voice box) and trachea (wind pipe). It is generally performed in patients with suspected narrowing of the airway.

In a tympanoplasty the ear drum is repaired with graft material from the patient. This operation may be done for patients with chronic drainage from a perforation, a traumatic perforation, or a persistent hole following placement of a tube or trauma. The tympanoplasty operation is often done in conjunction with other operations to repair the hearing bones.

An operation performed under general anesthesia designed to improve swallowing function by opening an abnormal pouch that develops at the junction of the throat and the esophagus (food tube). This procedure is most often performed through the mouth with a laser and patients usually go home the next day.

Pancreas transplant at University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics has performed more than 1,100 transplant procedures since its inception in 1982, making it one of the largest and most active in the nation.

The adenoid is tonsil-like tissue located in the throat behind the nasal passage. If enlarged, it causes obstructive nasal symptoms (congestion, mucus accumulation) and snoring. It can also contribute to ear problems due to its location next to the Eustachian tube opening. Adenoidectomy is sometimes done in conjunction with tonsillectomy, and is performed through the mouth and nose.

A bronchoscopy employs scopes through the mouth to examine the airway below the level of the voice box and into the lungs. This is usually performed in combination with laryngoscopy to diagnose the cause of airway, voice, and swallow symptoms, but also to treat diseases affecting the aerodigestive tract including papilloma lesions, airway narrowing, and removal of foreign bodies.

Choanal Atresia Repair

Choanal atresia is a congenital problem that occurs when the back of the nasal passage does not develop and open into the upper throat as it should. This can occur on one or both sides. Surgery to correct this problem is usually performed with small scopes (cameras) entirely through the nasal passage.

The sinuses are air-filled spaces in the facial skeleton with doorways leading into the nasal passage. When these doorways are narrow or obstructed it can cause recurrent sinus symptoms. Endoscopic sinus surgery is performed entirely through the nostrils using small scopes (cameras) to locate the natural doorways to the sinuses and make them larger.

A procedure using scopes (cameras) through the mouth to obtain a close-up view of the larynx (voice box). It is used to help diagnose the cause of airway, voice, and swallow symptoms. It is also performed when treating diseases that affect the airway and voice, such as cysts, papilloma lesions, hemangiomas, and congenital malformations.

Laryngotracheal Reconstruction

Describes a variety of procedures designed to increase the dimensions of a narrowed, obstructed airway (stenosis). Stenosis can be congenital but also caused by injuries to the inner lining of the airway, particularly prolonged intubation with an endotracheal breathing tube. This surgery can sometimes involve use of cartilage borrowed from a rib or the ear to augment and enlarge the area of airway narrowing.

Mastoidectomy

The mastoid is the bone behind the ear. It is composed of many tiny air spaces like a honey comb, and these air spaces are connected to the middle ear. Mastoidectomy is a procedure performed to help remove chronic disease or infection from the bone behind the ear. This surgery is occasionally performed in combination with tympanoplasty (repair of the ear drum) and/or ossiculoplasty (repair of the bones of hearing).

Neck Mass Excision

A broad category of procedures involving removal of a neck mass through a neck incision. This can be for diagnosis (biopsy) or treatment of a variety of neck masses, including infections, congenital malformations, enlarged lymph nodes, and benign or cancerous masses involving the thyroid or saliva glands.

Ossiculoplasty

The ossicles are the tiny bones of hearing that conduct sound from the ear drum to the inner ear (cochlea). These bones can be disconnected due to trauma or due to chronic ear infections, and this would significantly impair hearing. Surgery to repair the ossicular chain is sometimes done entirely through incisions in the ear canal but often is combined with an incision in the skin behind the ear. It is often combined with tympanoplasty (repair of the ear drum) and/or mastoidectomy (removal of disease from the mastoid bone behind the ear).

A procedure used to treat nasal breathing problems caused by deviation of the nasal septum, the midline divider in the nasal passage between the nostrils. This is performed within the nasal passage usually with no external incisions. It is sometimes combined with procedures to decrease the size of enlarged nasal turbinates which are the natural shelves running the length of the nasal passage.

Surgical placement of a breathing tube into the windpipe (trachea) just below the level of the voice box (larynx). This is performed on patients who need to be on a ventilator over a long period or who have obstruction of the airway at or above the level of the voice box.

A surgery performed to repair a hole in the ear drum that may be present due to trauma or more commonly due to chronic ear infections. A hole in the ear drum often impairs hearing and can be complicated by ear drainage. Tympanoplasty is sometimes done entirely through incisions in the ear canal but often is combined with an incision in the skin behind the ear. This surgery is occasionally combined with ossiculoplasty (repair of one or more of the bones of hearing) and/or mastoidectomy (removal of disease from the mastoid bone behind the ear).

A procedure used to treat frequently recurrent ear infections and/or persistent fluid in the middle ear space. Using a microscope for visualization, a small incision is made in the ear drum, fluid is suctioned away if present, and a tiny tube (approx 1 mm) is placed in the incision to keep it open and allow continued ventilation of the middle ear.

Our specailists in pediatric plastic and reconstructive surgery provide a variety of services for children at the American Family Children’s Hospital. We care for the entire spectrum of congenital (present at birth) and acquired deformities in infants, children and adolescents.

A lymph node dissection is when all of the lymph nodes in any area of the body are removed. This is sometimes done after a sentinel lymph node biopsy (if melanoma is found in the sentinel lymph node) or if melanoma is found in a lymph node by a needle biopsy. This may include the lymph nodes under the arm (axillary lymph node dissection), in the groin (superficial and/or deep inguinal dissection) or in the neck (modified radical neck dissection).

The sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node(s) where melanoma may spread. The lymph node may be in the groin, under the arm, or in the neck depending on what part of the body the melanoma is located. These lymph nodes are sent to the pathologist to determine if cancer is present.

Localized melanoma is treated with surgical removal of the tumor along with an extra amount of normal skin around the melanoma (a wide local excision) to ensure that all of the melanoma cells have been removed. Most of the time, the wound can be directly closed with sutures. Sometimes, a skin graft from elsewhere on the body must be used to replace the skin that was removed.

The Thoracic Surgery specialists in the Department of Surgery offer comprehensive specialty care for patients with all types of heart and thoracic diseases. We provide a complete range of services – from initial evaluation and management to highly specialized consultation for rare diseases, new surgical approaches, devices and technologies.

In an endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), a thin tube with a camera and ultrasound attached to it is passed into the trachea. There it is able to identify whether something is a vessel or solid mass. Biopsies may be taken of solid masses, such as lymph nodes, in order to obtain a diagnosis or help stage lung cancer.

Endobronchial/Esophagel Catheter

catheter is placed in the chest allowing the fluid that collects around the lungs to be drained at home.

Endobronchial Stent Placement

During an endobronchial stent placement a bronchoscope is used to visualize the airways and place a stent. This prevents the airways from collapsing and allows the airway to remain open

During endoscopic photodynamic therapy a thin tube is passed into the trachea or esophagus. A laser attached to the thin tube will activate a drug that the patient received earlier via an IV. This drug is present in cancer cells and once activated will destroy the cancer cells.

An endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that destroys part of the sympathetic nerve chain. The sympathetic chain contains the nerve supply to the sweat glands of the armpit and palms.

During fluorescence bronchoscopy a thin tube with a camera and a fluorescent blue light is passed into the trachea and airways. Like a normal bronchoscopy, the airways are visualized and biopsies may be taken. However, the fluorescent blue light is able to detect flat early cancers and precancerous lesions located in the airways.

In lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS), the damaged top portion of the lung is removed. This allows the remaining, better functioning lung tissue to expand and work better.

Mediastinoscopy

During a medistinoscopy a thin tube with a small camera attached to it is passed into the mediastinum, the space in the upper chest between and in front of the lungs. This space includes the great vessels, trachea, esophagus, and lymph nodes. The camera is able to visualize this area and obtain biopsies of tissue.

Metastatectomy

In a metastatectomy the portion of the lung that involves cancer which has spread from another organ is removed. The cancer may have spread from the breast, bone, or colon to the lung. This procedure is usually done in a minimally invasive manner.

In a robotic paraesophageal hernia repair the surgeon uses a robot to make the hole in the diaphragm, through which the stomach has slipped up into the chest cavity, smaller. The stomach may also be surgically wrapped around the esophagus to help prevent hernia recurrence.

A sleeve lobectomy is a surgical procedure that saves as much of the lung as possible. This procedure is primarily used when the location of the tumor involves a major airway. The cancerous portion of the airway is removed and the remaining edges of the airway are reconnected.

During a thoracentesis a needle is placed into the pleural space to remove fluid. With the removal of fluid, breathing may become easier. The fluid may be analyzed to help diagnose an infection or cancer.

In a thoracoscopic pleurodesis the surgeon instills either talc or doxycycline into the pleural space in a minimally invasive manner. This causes adhesions of the lung to the pleura and obliterates the space.

Thoracoscopic Thymectomy

In a thymectomy the surgeon removes the thymus gland. This may be done in a minimally invasive manner as with a video-assisted thoracoscopic approach.

In a thoracoscopy the surgeon uses a small camera and three small incisions to inspect the chest cavity. At times the surgeon will remove a small section of the lung, obtain tissue samples for diagnosis, repair a collapsed lung, or drain fluid from around the lung.

A vertical muscle sparing incision is a surgical technique that preserves the major chest muscles while exposing the chest for surgery. This improves post-operative pain control, shoulder motion, and lung function.

Wedge Resection

In a wedge resection a small portion of the lung is surgically removed.

Endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair is a minimally invasive operation that repairs the widended part (or aneurysm) in the aorta. Endovascular repair means the treatment is performed using catheters. The catheters are inserted in small incisions in the groin and guided though your blood vessel to the aneurysm.

An open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair is a surgical procedure that repairs an aneursym in the stomach which is the widened or buldging porition of a major artery called the aorta. The aorta carries blood to the stomach, plevis and legs.

Angioplasty and stent placement are two ways to open blocked peripheral arteries. Angioplasty is a surgical procedure that opens narrowed or blocked blood vessels that supply bood to the legs. These peripheral arteries can become blocked with fatty material that build up inside them. A stent is a small, metal mesh tube that expands inside an artery.

Compartment syndrome refers to the compression of nerves, blood vessels and muscle inside a closed space (compartment) within the body. This leads to tissue death due to lack of oxygenation as the blood vessels are compressed by the raised pressure within the compartment.

Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) with a Fenestrated Endograft Stent is a minimally-invasive procedure for patients with inoperable juxtarenal aneurysms. Unlike traditional stents, fenestrated grafts are custom made to fit each patient’s unique anatomy, allowing them to be used near major arteries.

An endovascular thoracic repair is a minimally invasive procedure and repairs an artery located in the chest that has become too large or balloons outward. Catheters are inserted in small incisions in the groin and guided through blood vessels to the aneurysm.

During an opean aneurysm repair surgery, a surgeon will make an incision in the chest to replace the weakened portion of the aorta (the largest artery in the body) with a fabric tube called a graft. A thoracic aortic aneursym operation is performed to prevent the weakened area from bursting or rupturing.

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a group of disorders that occur when there is compression, injury, or irritation of the nerves and/or blood vessels (arteries and veins) in the lower neck and upper chest area. Surgical treatment, in conjunction with medications, may be necessary to manage symptoms in certain patients.

Vericose veins are swollen, twisted, painful veins that have filled with blood. They ususally develop in the legs. There are several noninvasive treatment options including radiofrequency ablation, laser ablation and sclerotheraphy.

Breast Surgery at the UW Department of Surgery is handled by surgeons trained in the most advanced procedures to treat cancer and diseases of the breast. Our breast surgeons are key members of a multidisciplinary team in the Breast Center dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all benign and malignant breast problems. The Breast Center is located in the UW Carbone Cancer Center, the only NCI designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in Wisconsin.

Bowel incontinence is the loss of bowel control, leading to an involuntary passage of stool. This can range from occasionally leaking a small amount of stool and passing gas, to completely losing control of bowel movements.

Crohn’s is an inflammatory disease affecting any part of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus. It is most commonly found where the small intestine ends and the large intestine begins (terminal ileum).

A peptic ulcer is erosion in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine, an area called the duodenum. If the peptic ulcer is located in the stomach it is called a gastric ulcer.

The Medical and Surgical Weight Management Program is a multidisciplinary group of dedicated experts committed to helping morbidly obese patients who have struggled with their weight and health conditions, using the latest surgical techniques.

The Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (ENT) offers a wide range of specialists in the field of adult and pediatric general otolaryngology, facial plastics and trauma, head and neck, otology, rhinology, swallow and voice issues.

The Thoracic Surgery specialists in the Department of Surgery offer comprehensive specialty care for patients with all types of heart and thoracic diseases. We provide a complete range of services – from initial evaluation and management to highly specialized consultation for rare diseases, new surgical approaches, devices and technologies.